The direct seasonal route between upper Kaghan and Sharda is the rough Jalkhad–Noori Top–Sharda track. It does not require a detour through Babusar, Chilas, Minimarg or Burzil Pass. Those places belong to different road corridors, and combining them as one tourist route creates unsafe and misleading directions.
The Correct Route
From Naran, travel north on the paved N-15 to Jalkhad. The remote track then climbs toward Noori Top on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa–AJK side and descends toward Sharda in Neelum Valley. Published road descriptions place Noori Top at approximately 3,950 metres and describe the Jalkhad–Sharda track as roughly 47 km, but driving time varies greatly with washouts, mud, water crossings and oncoming traffic.
This Is Not a Normal Transfer
The track is narrow, unpaved, exposed and seasonally maintained. It should be attempted only when local authorities have confirmed that the entire crossing is open. Rain, snow, landslides or a damaged bridge can make it impassable even during summer. Mobile coverage and roadside assistance are limited.
Vehicle and Driver
Use a mechanically sound, high-clearance 4×4 with an experienced driver who has recently completed this exact route. The operator should carry a full-size spare, tyre and recovery tools, tow strap, first-aid kit, food, water and offline navigation. Avoid a single-vehicle crossing when recent local advice recommends convoy travel. Never accept a guaranteed crossing before the road has been checked.
Access and Identification
Carry CNICs or passports for all travellers and ask the relevant district and tourism authorities about current checkpoint, identification or permission requirements. Requirements can change, especially for foreign nationals and routes close to sensitive areas. Do not rely on old permit instructions or claims of unofficial contacts.
Safer Alternative
If the Noori Top track is closed or uncertain, use normal paved approaches rather than improvising a mountain crossing: return from Naran toward Balakot and continue to Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley through the established road network. It is longer but easier to support and reroute.
Booking Rule
A responsible quotation should state that this crossing is provisional until road access, vehicle, driver and authority requirements are reconfirmed shortly before departure. Build at least one contingency day and agree on the alternative route before paying.